DEZ...
First of all welcome, but I am not quite sure how to answer your question, or how to recommend a destination. I have done 2 short haul, and 4 Long haul tours, with Tuscany booked soon and NZ next year. To be honest some of the tours IE USA are very hectic, and you don't get much chance on a personal level to get to know the LOCAL'S that much, you do sort of stick to the tour groups as you are on the go sight seeing most of the time. The only beach part holiday I have done was the extension add on after the Kenyan Safari, but even then we did not interact to much with the local's then either. so think that is my answer. If I can help with another question I might be able to help you more.
Cindy